It’s Harder Than You Thought Being a Teen Parent Essay Example
When we reflect on our lives, we recall numerous memories - both positive and negative - that span across different stages of our existence, from childhood to adolescence and beyond. Among these recollections, one memory stands out prominently and remains etched in our minds forever. As human beings, it is unavoidable for us to make mistakes since imperfection is an intrinsic part of our nature. Making errors plays a vital role in our personal growth, allowing us to transform into better individuals. The crucial factor lies in how we manage these missteps. In the present time, teenage parenthood presents a significant challenge within society.
The birth rate for adolescent females aged 15-19 in 2016 was 20.3 per 1,000, resulting in a total of 209,809 babies born within this age group. This figure reflects a nine percent decrease from the previous year (Office o
...f Adolescent Health Trends in Teen Pregnancy and Childbearing).
Despite the gradual decline in teenage births, becoming a parent during adolescence can have a significant impact on an individual's life and future aspirations. Typically, teenagers aged 16 to 19 prioritize their high school experience or work towards graduation to pursue higher education. As college approaches, these students strive to become independent adults for the first time. However, having a baby at such a young age can be their worst fear as it may lead to uncertainty about seeking support and jeopardizing educational goals.
The discussion revolves around teenage parenthood and how adults can provide assistance. A significant turning point occurred in Michael Chen's life two years ago when he was merely a typical high school student with goals and a social life. However, at times,
he would neglect assignments or skip classes, acknowledging that it was an error.
However, the discovery he made on June 17th, 2016 was unlike anything else. At just 16 years old, he found out that he would soon become a father - a concept that seemed unimaginable for someone so young. This news left Michael feeling shocked and completely bewildered.
Michael Chen's presence seemed to vanish as his body crumbled. Gradually, his dreams dissipated, leaving behind a void within him. He ceased nourishing himself, resting, and going to school. It didn't take much time for both his parents and the educational institution to detect that something was amiss. Thus begins the story of Michael Chen and the regret that comes with being a teenage parent.
Telling his parents about becoming a father was a tremendously difficult task that demanded great courage to acknowledge his mistake and assume accountability. His parents were initially surprised and let down by what had happened, but eventually embraced the circumstances and provided the assistance he required throughout this challenging time.
Despite facing constant criticism and judgment due to becoming a teen parent, his parents consistently provided reassurance with comforting words, "EVERYTHING will be ok!" Nevertheless, whenever someone criticized his parents' parenting or made negative remarks about him, he couldn't help but feel terrible and connect it to his present circumstances. As he walked through the corridors of high school, he observed people staring and whispering about him. He yearned for a fresh beginning in college where his past remained unknown.
During his time at Nicholls State University, Michael found comfort and support from a select group of individuals. His friends and certain teachers were the
only ones with whom he felt at ease. In particular, one economics teacher went above and beyond by granting him some leniency if he needed to tend to his child. Furthermore, his counselor consistently displayed care for his overall well-being and motivated him during periods of apathy.
Personally, I got to know Michael while we were attending the university, and it came as a surprise when I discovered that he was a parent. Naturally, this sparked my curiosity about the specifics of his situation.
He explains that becoming a parent has greatly affected his life, resulting in both positive and negative changes. Despite the challenges it has brought, he believes that if he had possessed better knowledge at 16 years old, this situation could have been avoided. Nonetheless, this experience taught him an invaluable lesson that no one else could have imparted to him. It showed him the importance of taking responsibility for his actions when faced with difficulties and actively seeking solutions instead of avoiding them. He acknowledges that his ability to do so promptly is not due to bravery but rather stems from the understanding that addressing problems earlier leads to quicker progress.
Despite my initial mistake, which I knew would have consequences for someone I cared about, it ultimately led to personal growth and improved decision-making. While nobody wants to become a teenage parent, if it does happen, one must consider their options. Michael made the choice not to abandon the baby because he believed it was the right thing to do, even though it may not have been in his best interest. However, the child is innocent and deserves a chance at life. Unfortunately,
society does not adequately address the underlying issue. Drawing from personal experience, Michael explained how adults perceive anti-teenage pregnancy posters as helpful when they lack innovation and can be insulting to those facing similar situations like him. The widely known poster featuring a baby stating "I’m twice as likely not to graduate high school because you had me as a teen" has received criticism for perpetuating negative stereotypes without offering preventive information (Taylor City Campaign Targeting Teenage Pregnancy Draws Criticism). These posters insult and perpetuate stereotypes, further adding challenges for teenage parents who already face difficulties. It is crucial for communities to prioritize teaching children about safe relationships and providing comprehensive sex education that promotes protection.It is interesting that when teenage parents reflect on their experiences, they are often asked what changes they would make if given the chance to go back in time. Surprisingly, many of them assert that they would change nothing because these experiences have played a significant role in shaping their current identities.
"From a young age, I lacked the desire to be more mature and responsible. However, the valuable lesson I learned from my experiences will always stay with me," Michael said with a smile before heading back to his dormitory.
Work Cited
- Taylor, Kate. 'City Campaign Targeting Teenage Pregnancy Draws Criticism.' The New York Times. The New York Times, 06 Mar. 2013. Web. 10 Oct. 2018.
- Office of Adolescent Health.
The article titled "Trends in Teen Pregnancy and Childbearing" can be found on HHS.gov, the official website of the US Department of Health and Human Services. It was published on June 2, 2016, and is accessible online as of October
10th.
2018.
